Hatred Never Ceased by Hatred
But by love alone is healed.
This is an ancient and eternal law.
(Buddha)
It is Day 3 after the terrorist attack on New York City and the Pentagon. When all of the dust settles, it is estimated that 10,000 innocent people may have died. Ten thousand... how wack is that? How many people are in your hometown?
I live about twenty miles north of New York City. On Monday night, I cancelled a lunch date about ten blocks from the twin towers. The reason I didn't go was that I wanted to spend time with my husband, who had come in early Tuesday morning on an American Airlines flight from Los Angeles to New York.
What a day that was. As I watched the first tower crumble, I developed a knot in my stomach that still remains. Living so close to the city means that my neighbors and friends work there. Immediately, the phone started ringing with concerned folks checking on each other.
I started thinking about my daughters, who were in school. I phoned the elementary where things were under control. My older daughter's middle school was chaos. Kids were crying and worrying about their parents who worked at the World Trade Center. Let me tell you it has been awful.
I have been praying for those I know who are missing, those who are alive and in shock, and those who are risking their lives to provide hope and help for our nation.
Even though this feels like a video, it is real-life. I know firsthand how much pain people are in. Today, I was in the kitchen of someone who hasn't heard from her husband. She has three young kids. You know what? She hasn't given up hope. Even in despair, she is gracious and kind-hearted. That's because she has a strong faith - and she has love.
Love each other. Be kind. Hug your parents and friends. Pray for peace.
